Rabid skunk case confirmed in Essex

ESSEX – A skunk that had a recent interaction with a dog in the village of Essex Junction has tested positive for rabies, Essex Health Officer Jerry Firkey said Thursday.

Firkey said the Vermont Health Department told him the owners of the pet dog had killed the skunk and brought it to the state lab for examination. He said he believes it was not a full bite, but the dog had obtained saliva.

Tests on the skunk's brain showed a positive level for rabies on Wednesday, Firkey said. The dog had received a rabies shot, but also got a booster.

The exact location was not disclosed, but Firkey said it was in a "high population area off of Main Street in the village."

The town had a rabies case with a raccoon about a year ago, the longtime health officer said.

Firkey urged residents in Essex and beyond to be on the watch for skunks and to keep pets away from them. He said there has been a large number of skunks in the area.

"If anyone observes a strange acting wild animal especially in a populated area, do not approach the animal and notify your local law enforcement officials immediately," Firkey said.